Daijiworld Media Network - Canberra
Canberra, Feb 28: Emergency Department (ED) performance in Australian public hospitals has declined for the eighth consecutive year, with only 55% of visits completed within the four-hour benchmark in 2023-24, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) reported on Friday.
The 2025 public hospital report card revealed a steady drop from 73% in 2014-15, with no state or territory exceeding 60% in the latest figures.
Additionally, one-third of critically ill patients, including those with chest pain and strokes, were not seen within the recommended 10-minute timeframe—up from 25% in 2018-19.
AMA President Danielle McMullen warned that without urgent investment, hospital capacity will keep falling, worsening staff burnout. She urged political leaders to prioritize healthcare ahead of Australia’s upcoming general election.